Formation and metal-to-insulator transition properties of VO2–ZrV2O7 composite films by polymer-assisted deposition

VO2–ZrV2O7 composite films were prepared on silica glass substrates by polymer-assisted deposition using a V–Zr–O solution. The coexistence of ZrV2O7 and VO2 was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy, glance angle X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The composite films with similar thickness of about 95 nm showed decreased particle sizes and significantly enhanced luminous transmittances (from 32.3% at Zr/V=0 to 53.4% at Zr/V=0.12) with increasing Zr/V rations. The enhancement in the luminous transmittance was ascribed to the absorption-edge changes in the composite films. This feature benefits the application of VO2 to smart windows.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► VO2–ZrV2O7 composite films were prepared by polymer-assisted deposition. ► Addition of Zr significantly influenced the surface morphology of films. ► Luminous transmittance of films largely increased as Zr/V increases.